Open source project to develop geopolymer cast stone construction

Geopolymer and Minerals Processing Group

Melbourne School of Engineering: Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

Geopolymers are a class of aluminosilicate materials with potential applications as a cement replacement for Greenhouse gas emission minimisation and niche applications, and also as an advanced material for use in fire-proof composites and refractories. Utilisation of industrial wastes, particularly geothermal wastes, fly ashes and mineralogical slags, is an area receiving significant attention. University of Melbourne research is focused on developing a more complete understanding of the chemistry of geopolymerisation, with a view towards optimising performance in desired applications. We work closely together with industrial partners in developing geopolymers as a sustainable alternative to traditional construction materials. This is our main area of research at present.

The Geopolymer and Mineral Processing Group (GMPG) was founded by Professor Jannie van Deventer (who continues to work with us in an Honorary Professor role), and is now led by Group Manager and Senior Research Fellow Dr John Provis, with Senior Research Fellow Dr Dingwu Feng, and Research Fellows Dr Susan Bernal and Dr Laura Gordon.

The fundamental research interests of the Group include the following areas: Inorganic Polymers (i.e. Geopolymers) – for both cement- and ceramic-type applications; Hydrometallurgy and Ion Exchange

The Geopolymer and Mineral Processing Group is an internationally acknowledged leader in the study of the formation, molecular structure, and performance properties of novel advanced geopolymeric materials, and in the development of non-cyanide (particularly thiosulphate) extractants for gold. Inquiries regarding consulting projects in these and related areas are always welcome – please send an email if you would like to enquire about our expertise and capabilities.

Members of the Group undertake active multidisciplinary collaborations with Zeobond Pty. Ltd. and other industrial partners, academic collaborators around Australia and internationally including China, USA, Colombia, Iran, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Spain, France, South Africa and Ukraine, and with various Departments within the University of Melbourne.

The research activities of the Group are primarily funded by industrial projects and by the Australian Research Council (ARC). The Geopolymer and Minerals Processing Group is a member of the Particulate Fluids Processing Centre, a Special Research Centre of the Australian Research Council, and contributes significantly to the research outcomes of this Centre. We also collaborate with the CO2CRC on carbon dioxide reduction issues, and are involved in the Geopolymer Alliance.

Ph.D. projects are currently available, and can be tailored to fit the interests and expertise of qualified applicants. If you are interested in conducting Ph.D. research in the GMPG, please email us (attaching a CV/resume) to discuss the available research topics and opportunities for funding. We are particularly interested in recruiting high-quality students to work in the field of geopolymer technology – so we’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re looking for a career in academia or in industry, a Ph.D. in the GMPG will provide a solid background in research as well as the opportunity to publish cutting-edge work in top international journals in Chemical Engineering and Materials Science.